Making your property stand out is vital in today’s competitive rental market. Tenants are becoming more choosy, so landlords must ensure their properties look appealing and have practical features that attract long-term renters.
The good news is that you don’t need to renovate to increase your rental income. Small, smart upgrades can have a significant impact. These upgrades can help you raise the rent while keeping your property popular.
A study by Track Capital shows that in 2024, the average rental returns were 6.18% in Scotland and 5.18% in the North East. This indicates that well-kept properties tend to earn better profits.
With some smart and budget-friendly updates, you can make your rental property more appealing, minimise vacancy rates, and even maximise the rent.
Whether you are an experienced landlord or just starting, these seven key upgrades will help you quickly enhance your property’s value and find tenants.
Key Improvements to Maximise Your Rental Property’s Appeal and Value
Here are seven key improvements to maximise your rental property’s appeal and value:
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Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Features
As energy bills keep increasing, renters are looking for homes that won’t break the bank on utilities. Landlords are discovering that properties with strong Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) aren’t just more appealing to tenants but can also bring in more rent money.
Improving energy efficiency in a rental property can make it more appealing and raise its value. According to Rightmove, around 2.9 million rental homes in the UK need work to reach at least a ‘C’ rating on their EPC. The average cost to achieve this rating is about £8,074 per property.
Quick Upgrades to Improve Energy Efficiency
- Install smart thermostats so tenants can better control the heating.
- Upgrade to LED lighting, which lasts longer and saves on electricity bills.
- Double-glazed windows to better insulate and reduce energy loss.
- Add loft or wall insulation to keep heat in during colder months.
These updates will make your property more attractive and match the UK government’s green targets, ensuring your rental is ready for the future.
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Modernise the Kitchen for Maximum Appeal
Tenants value a modern, functional kitchen. It’s the house’s core; even minor upgrades can significantly enhance its appeal.
- Replace old worktops with stylish and durable options like quartz or laminate.
- Give your cabinets a quick update with fresh paint or new handles.
- Choose energy-efficient appliances like A-rated fridges, ovens, and dishwashers.
- Add under-cabinet lighting to create a modern look.
According to the experts at City Borough Housing, the most sought-after rental properties offer both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Features like energy-efficient upgrades, modern kitchens, and durable flooring can significantly increase rental value and tenant demand.
For property owners looking to execute these upgrades, Bespoke Home Improvements, founded by Talia Warner, specialises in designing stylish, tenant-friendly spaces that stand out in the market.
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Refresh Walls with Neutral and Durable Paint
Don’t underestimate how much a new paint job can do. Walls that are lacklustre and outdated can make a place feel worn out, but walls with a fresh coat of paint make the space feel neat and welcoming.
Best Paint Choices for Rental Properties:
- Utilise neutral colours such as off-whites, greys, and warm beiges to attract more renters.
- Choose durable, wipeable paint to handle wear and tear.
- Avoid bold or too personal colours that could turn off potential tenants.
Giving your rental property a fresh coat of paint is one of the cheapest ways to make it look new, modern, and well-cared for.
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Install Hard-Wearing and Low-Maintenance Flooring
Carpets trap dirt, show stains easily, and wear out fast, making them a major headache for landlords. Opting for flooring that is both durable and easy to maintain is a wise choice, and in the long term, it proves to be a more beneficial investment.
Best Flooring Options for Rental Properties:
- Laminate Flooring: Cheap, scratch-resistant, and stylish.
- Luxury Vinyl Tile (VIT): Waterproof, durable, and mimics real wood or stone.
- Engineered Wood Flooring: This option is a high-quality choice that combines strength and luxury.
These choices improve your property’s appearance and help you save on maintenance. Your property will look great for a long time.
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Enhance the Bathroom with Stylish and Practical Upgrades
A well-maintained and modern bathroom can significantly influence a renter’s decision to lease your property. Small improvements can change the space into one that feels luxurious and inviting. According to a report from Addicted to Property, it was found that giving your bathroom a makeover could boost your property’s value by around 4% to 5%.
Easy Bathroom Upgrades:
- Replace old taps and showerheads with new, water-saving models.
- Install a heated towel rail for extra comfort and style.
- Improve lighting and ventilation to stop mould from building up.
- Update grouting and sealant to keep things looking fresh and clean.
Tenants are especially attracted to outdated bathrooms, so sprucing them up is a wise investment that will keep your rental in high demand and attractive to potential renters.
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Improve Kerb Appeal for a Great First Impression
First impressions matter in the rental market. Keeping your property’s exterior well-kept makes it look inviting and shows that it is cared for, creating a positive impression right from the start.
Simple Ways to Boost Kerb Appeal:
- Repaint the front door with a bright, inviting colour.
- Upgrade outdoor lights to improve safety and appearance.
- Keep pathways clean and maintained to avoid a worn-out look.
- Add easy-to-care-for plants or a small seating area for extra charm.
A property that looks great from the street doesn’t merely rent quickly; it also makes tenants feel good about living there, knowing it’s well-maintained.
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Invest in Smart Home Technology
Adding smart home features makes your rental stand out and attracts modern renters who want convenience and security.
Smart Upgrades That Impress Tenants:
- Keyless Entry Systems: No more lost keys and added security.
- Smart Lighting: Motion sensor and app-controlled lights make things easier.
- Security Cameras and Video Doorbells: Extra safety features that tenants like.
- Smart Meters: It helps tenants monitor and lower energy usage.
These technological upgrades will make your tenants happier and allow you to charge more for rent, which is great for your investment.
Conclusion
You don’t need to renovate your rental property to improve it. By focusing on critical areas like energy efficiency, contemporary finishes, and smart home features, you can increase its value and attract tenants more quickly.
Even small upgrades, like painting, updating kitchen fixtures, or improving lighting, can significantly impact a rental. Investing in the features that tenants want helps keep your rental competitive, desirable, and profitable for years.
You need to act now to stand out in a fast rental market. Upgrade your property to attract great tenants faster!